The Department of Natural Resources said Tuesday it will close the entire property at Mazomanie Beach, including islands immediately off the beach and wooded areas, weekdays from now until September 15.

The beach will only be open for public recreation on Saturdays and Sundays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the year. The DNR will post new signage for the new hours.

"The goal of this closure is to make Mazomanie Beach a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone who visits or floats past the area," said DNR Conservation Warden Nate Kroeplin. "It is clear from our records that the majority of illicit activity is taking place on weekdays. Along with the closure, we will add extra law enforcement presence."

The beach along the Lower Wisconsin River in the northwest corner of Dane County in the Town of Mazomanie has attracted people for decades. Over time the beach gained a national reputation as a gathering site for nudists.

But in recent years the DNR has been receiving increased reports of illicit sex, cruising and drug use. The DNR has made numerous attempts over several seasons to curb illicit activity.